Who You Hear It From

by Simon McBurney

An intimate 'pocket-sized' collection of essays by artistic director of Complicite, Simon McBurney, inspired by childhood memories, theatre projects and his journeys around the world.

117 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Simon Montagu McBurney, OBE (born 25 August 1957) is an English actor, writer and director. He is the founder and artistic director of the Théâtre de Complicité, London. He has had roles in the films The Manchurian Candidate, Friends with Money, The Golden Compass, The Duchess, Robin Hood, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Magic in the Moonlight, The Theory of Everything and Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation.

Reviews

[Siouxsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just finished reading this book for the first time. I know I will read it again and again. Each essay is a many layered cake that I can't wait to try again!

[Duncan Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illuminating series of essays from a genuine theatrical genius. Having recently seen the brilliant revival of Mnemonic, the detail, sharpness and humour of his thoughts made a lot of sense in the light of the production..

[Jess Barbour · Rating 4 out of 5]

picked this up at the NT after seeing an incredible revival of Complicite’s Mnemonic

[Valeria · Rating 5 out of 5]

As you start reading each text or essay it is difficult to predict where you will be taken. A mundane exchange between the writer and someone in his family gives rise to a detailed and complex association between a moment in time and a production which is under elaboration. Observations are made. Questions are asked. And all under the guiding force of a okay being created. This gives rise to some fascinating insights into the creative process and the reflection which underlies any project Simon is engage in. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Not only from the perspective of the theatre, but mostly from the perspective of a curious person who also has a penchant for asking questions and wanting to see things from a new perspective.